Manitoba Hydro Electricity Rates – Notice of Decision

Press Release

The Manitoba Public Utilities Board (PUB) approved a 3.6% average increase to Manitoba Hydro electricity rates for 2018/2019, effective June 1, 2018.

PUB remains concerned about bill affordability for Manitoba consumers, therefore recommends the Province assume responsibility for the development of bill affordability programs to assist lower-income customers. PUB recommends that a portion of the Province’s revenue collected from the Keeyask generating station fund the bill affordability programs. Additionally, PUB recommends that the government transfer some revenues from the carbon tax to Manitoba Hydro to lower potential future electricity rate increases.

PUB ordered the creation of a new First Nation On-Reserve Residential Customer Class. This customer class will not receive an increase in electricity rates in 2018.

PUB recommends the Province suspend the collection of approximately $900 million of government revenues from Bipole III over the next 13 years. This amount represents the approximate costs of locating the Bipole III transmission line from the east side of Lake Winnipeg to the west side of Lake Manitoba. These additional Bipole III costs should not be the responsibility of Manitoba Hydro ratepayers.

PUB recommends Manitoba Hydro reduce its spending on energy efficiency programs. Some current energy efficiency programs may not be economic and should not be pursued except for programs that assist lower-income customers.

The PUB is an impartial tribunal and regulator, at arm’s length from government, that acts in the public interest.

Ratepayers are invited to share their views on the Order with the PUB at http://www.pubmanitoba.ca/v1/contact-us/pub-complaint-form.html

Board Order 59/18, contains additional information on the general rate application and the Board’s decision. The Order is available on the Board’s website at www.pubmanitoba.ca, or through the Board’s Office.